Flower Photography: Santa Cruz Water Lily (Victoria cruziana)

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This giant waterlily produces massive, floating mid-green lily pads that can reach up to 8 feet across and can support the weight of a small adult. Its leaves are reddish purple and softly hairy on the underside. The ephemeral, pineapple-scented blooms appear in summer, lasting only two nights. The 16-inch flowers are white the first night, turning pink on the second night. ~ http://www.finegardening.com/